Faster, Longer, Pricier: Brammo Cooks Up a New Electric Motorcycle

Move along, Enertia — here comes the Empulse. Electric motorcycle maker Brammo announced plans this morning to build a faster, pricier model with longer range called the Empulse, which will join the company’s inaugural Brammo Enertia motorcycle in retailing through Best Buy.

Brammo says the Empulse, unveiled in pre-production prototype form today, will use a new battery pack and power management system, while employing a water-cooled motor (a first for electric motorcycles, according to Brammo).

Designed to sustain speeds of up to 100 MPH and deliver an average range of 60 miles per charge, the base Empulse model is set to roll out in 2011 with an estimated starting price of $9,995. Versions of the bike with larger battery packs will go for $11,995 (for 80 miles per charge) and $13,995 (100 miles).

This compares to the Enertia’s 60-70 MPH max speed, typical 40-mile range and roughly $8,000 price tag. At a time when electric car makers are racing to introduce lower-end models to expand beyond the luxury niche, Brammo is heading in the other direction to meet what CEO and founder Craig Bramscher sees as demand among motorcycle riders for higher speeds and longer range.

Based on Katie’s recent experience riding the Enertia (check out the Green Overdrive episode below) we’re guessing the Empulse will deliver one zippy ride. Katie said 30 MPH on the Enertia felt like twice that speed.